Mandu, Madhya Pradesh | Department: Culinary
Nimaya Resort & Spa is seeking a visionary Executive Chef to shape the culinary identity of our wellness-focused luxury retreat. If you're passionate about crafting memorable dining journeys rooted in fresh, seasonal ingredients and innovative techniques, this is your opportunity to make an impact.
JOB DESCRIPTIONCulinary Leadership & Brand Alignment- Define and articulate Nimaya's culinary vision across all touchpoints, aligning with brand values of presence, balance, sincerity, and consideration.
- Develop signature menus for diverse settings: wellness cuisine, vegetarian-led menus, live counters, chef's table evenings, weddings, offsite retreats, and seasonal high-tea rituals.
- Translate storytelling into plate presentationusing regional techniques, heirloom recipes, and mindful plating aesthetics.
Operational Management- Oversee the design, layout, and commissioning of multiple kitchens (main, satellite, banquet, show kitchen, spa caf).
- Lead budgeting, procurement, vendor management, and cost engineering with an emphasis on sustainable sourcing and inventory control.
- Develop and implement comprehensive SOPs for all culinary operations including mise en place workflows, hygiene standards (FSSAI/HACCP compliance), recipe documentation, and plating standards.
Team Building & People Development- Recruit, onboard, and mentor a passionate culinary brigade that shares the ethos of wellness and craft.
- Conduct regular training sessions on new techniques, sustainability practices, food safety, and guest-centric service.
- Foster an inclusive kitchen culture that values collaboration, creativity, and consistency.
Pre-Opening & Cross-Functional Collaboration- Work closely with architecture, branding, and F&B consultants on equipment planning, utility coordination, and BOH workflow optimization.
- Partner with design and product teams to co-create tableware, uniforms, packaging, and visual identity aligned with culinary aesthetics.
- Collaborate with the spa, wellness, and programming teams to develop cuisine that complements retreats, detox plans, and special wellness events.
Sustainability & Innovation- Champion zero-waste kitchen practices, seasonal and local procurement models, and energy-efficient equipment usage.
- Incorporate slow food principles and indigenous ingredients into menu design.
- Contribute to Nimaya's sustainability reporting by tracking food waste, local sourcing metrics, and carbon impact from operations.
Ideal Candidate Profile
- 812 years in progressive culinary roles; minimum 3 years as Executive Chef in luxury hotels, destination resorts, or wellness retreats.
- Deep knowledge of Indian regional cuisines and contemporary wellness trends (plant-forward, ayurvedic, gluten-free, etc.).
- Experience with multi-outlet F&B operations, banquet catering (up to 500 pax), and high-end guest experiences.
- Proficiency in BOH software (POS, inventory, recipe costing), kitchen planning, and international safety standards.
- Culinary degree from a reputed institution. Additional certifications in wellness cuisine or sustainable gastronomy preferred.
